Kalamazoo County Jail Inmate Lookup

The Kalamazoo County Jail, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is a county-level correctional facility overseen by the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office. This jail manages a diverse inmate population, encompassing individuals who are processed, fingerprinted, photographed, and classified for placement within the facility. The jail provides several programs including education, rehabilitation, mental health services, ministry, and health care, demonstrating its commitment to the diverse needs of its inmates.

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Opened to serve the needs of Kalamazoo County, the jail supervises over 400 inmates on average, emphasizing security and efficient inmate management. The facility is equipped to handle a variety of inmates, from those awaiting trial to those serving sentences. The jail's commitment to offering a range of programs reflects its focus on rehabilitation and inmate welfare, alongside maintaining public safety.

Inmate Search 

Inmate search is a critical process in the realm of correctional facilities. It's essential for friends, family, and legal representatives to locate and obtain information about inmates for various reasons, such as visitation, legal proceedings, and general welfare checks. Kalamazoo County Jail provides an accessible way to search for inmates, ensuring transparency and ease of access for those who need this information.

The Process of Inmate Search

The process of searching for an inmate in the Kalamazoo County Jail is straightforward and designed to provide quick access to inmate information. This process is crucial for maintaining connections between inmates and their external support networks.

1. Accessing the Inmate Search Tool: Begin by visiting the Kalamazoo County Jail's official inmate search page. This page is the primary portal for inmate information. The search tool is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that users can navigate the process with ease.
2. Entering Inmate Information: On the inmate search page, you'll find fields to enter specific information about the inmate, such as their name or inmate ID number. It's important to have accurate information for the inmate, as this will ensure a more efficient and precise search.
3. Reviewing Inmate Details: Once you submit your search, a list of inmates matching your criteria will appear. This list includes details like the inmate's full name, booking photo, charges, and bail amount. Click on the inmate's name for more detailed information, including their housing location and case information.
4. Understanding Inmate Status: The detailed view provides insights into the inmate's current status within the facility, such as their custody level and any scheduled court dates. This information is crucial for legal representatives and family members planning visits or legal interventions.

Information Available on the Jail Roster

The jail roster at Kalamazoo County Jail is a comprehensive resource that provides detailed information about inmates. This information is crucial for those seeking to understand an inmate's current situation, including legal representatives, family members, and friends.

Inmate's Full Name and ID

The jail roster prominently displays each inmate's full legal name and a unique identification number. This specific ID is essential for accurately tracking and managing inmates within the facility, as it eliminates confusion that may arise from common names. The use of both name and ID ensures precision in legal documents, correspondence, and any administrative processes related to the inmate.

Booking Details

Booking details, including the date and time the inmate was processed into the facility, provide a clear record of the inmate’s entry into the jail system. This information is crucial for legal professionals and family members tracking the duration of an inmate's incarceration. It also plays a key role in any judicial proceedings, as it helps establish a timeline of the inmate's custody.

Charges and Bail Information

The roster includes detailed information about the charges against each inmate, which is vital for understanding the nature of their legal situation. Bail information, when applicable, is also provided, enabling family members or legal representatives to make informed decisions about bail arrangements. This section is particularly important for those monitoring the progress of legal cases or considering financial assistance for the inmate.

Mugshot and Physical Description

Each inmate's record on the roster typically includes a mugshot and a physical description, which may encompass height, weight, and other distinguishing features. This visual and descriptive information aids in the accurate identification of individuals, especially in cases of common names or mistaken identity. Mugshots and physical descriptions are also used for various legal and administrative purposes.

Custody Status and Location

Information about an inmate's current custody status, such as the security level (maximum, medium, minimum) and their specific location within the jail, is detailed on the roster. This information is crucial for arranging visitations, understanding the conditions of confinement, and for legal representatives preparing for case proceedings. It also helps in assessing the security measures applied to different inmates based on their custody status.

Court Dates and Case Information

Scheduled court dates and pertinent case information are also listed, providing an overview of the inmate’s legal proceedings. This information is essential for lawyers, family members, and other interested parties planning to attend court sessions or track the progress of legal cases. Additionally, it aids in preparing any necessary legal documentation or support in anticipation of upcoming trials or hearings.

Tips to Inmate Search

Use Correct and Complete Information

When searching for an inmate, it's critical to use accurate and complete information, such as the correct spelling of their full legal name or their specific inmate ID. This precision ensures the search results are relevant and that you locate the intended individual. Inaccurate or incomplete information can lead to unsuccessful searches or confusion with similarly named individuals.

Understand the Search Tool's Limitations

Be aware that the inmate search tool may have certain limitations, such as only displaying currently incarcerated individuals and not those who have been recently released or transferred. Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations and directs you to alternative methods or sources if needed. If an inmate is not found, consider these potential scenarios or reach out to jail authorities for clarification.

Regularly Check for Updates

Inmate information, including custody status and legal proceedings, can change frequently. Regularly checking the jail roster ensures you have the most up-to-date information, particularly important for monitoring legal developments or changes in custody. This practice is crucial for those actively involved in supporting the inmate, whether for legal, personal, or logistical reasons.

Respect Privacy and Legal Boundaries

While inmate information is publicly accessible, it's important to use it responsibly and within the bounds of privacy and legal ethics. Avoid misusing the information for purposes other than intended, such as unauthorized background checks or public discussions that could infringe on an inmate's privacy. Always consider the sensitivity and confidentiality of the information accessed.

Seek Assistance if Needed

If you encounter difficulties in your search or have specific questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the jail’s administrative staff for assistance. They can provide guidance on how to use the search tool effectively and may offer additional insights or clarification on the information found. This approach ensures that you receive accurate and comprehensive information regarding the inmate.

Visitation Guidelines and Hours

Visitation is a crucial aspect of life for inmates at the Kalamazoo County Jail, as it helps maintain their connections with the outside world, contributing positively to their mental health and rehabilitation process. Understanding and adhering to the visitation guidelines ensures that these visits are conducted smoothly and benefit both the inmates and their visitors.

Procedure for Arranging a Visit

Pre-Visit Registration: Visitors must first register themselves with the jail, either online or at the facility. This step often involves providing personal identification details.

Scheduling a Visit: Once registered, visitors can schedule a visit according to the jail’s visitation calendar. This may involve choosing a specific date and time slot.

Confirmation and Check-In: After scheduling a visit, visitors should receive a confirmation. On the day of the visit, arriving early for check-in and security screening is important.

Rules and Regulations for Visits

1. Visitor Identification: All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification during each visit.
2. Conduct and Dress Code: Visitors are expected to adhere to a specific dress code and maintain proper conduct throughout the visit. Inappropriate clothing or behavior may lead to visitation denial.
3. Prohibited Items: Visitors are not allowed to bring certain items into the visitation area, such as cell phones, cameras, or any contraband.
4. Security Screening: Visitors may be subject to a security screening similar to airport security checks.
5. Interaction with Inmates: Physical contact may be limited or prohibited, depending on the jail’s policies and the inmate's custody level.

Visitation Hours

Visitation hours vary based on the inmate's housing location within the jail. It's crucial to check the current visitation schedule to ensure the chosen visiting time aligns with the inmate's designated visiting hours.

Inmate Calls 

Maintaining communication with inmates at Kalamazoo County Jail is vital for their well-being and helps keep them connected with the outside world. Understanding the call system is essential for uninterrupted communication.

Overview of the Inmate Call System

Kalamazoo County Jail uses the GTL Connect Network (Viapath Technologies) for inmate phone services. There are options like AdvancePay (prepaid collect calling), Pin Debit (funding an inmate's commissary account for calls), and Voicemail services. Deposits for inmate communication can be made online, by phone, or at the jail lobby kiosk.

Calls in this facility are guide by the following rules:

• Inmates can make outgoing calls only. Incoming calls for inmates are not allowed.
• All calls, except those to legal counsel, are recorded and may be monitored for security reasons.
• Calls may be made collect, or inmates can purchase calling cards from the detention center's commissary.
• Abuse of the phone system or violation of jail regulations can result in the suspension of phone privileges.

Jail Phone Number and Guidelines for Use

The jail phone number for general inquiries is 269-385-6173. However, remember that this number cannot be used to contact inmates directly. Instead, for communication, you can:

• Set up a prepaid account through the phone service provider. This allows inmates to call your number.
• Write letters to the inmate, ensuring that you follow the facility's rules for inmate mail.
• Use the jail's email system if available.

Remember to respect the rules of the facility when communicating with an inmate. Violation of these rules can lead to communication privileges being suspended.

Inmate Mail

Inmate mail serves as a crucial emotional lifeline, connecting those incarcerated at Kalamazoo County Jail with their families, friends, and the outside community. This form of communication plays a significant role in maintaining relationships and offering moral support to inmates.

Process for Sending Mail to Inmates

Addressing the Mail: Mail must be addressed with the inmate's full name and ID, along with the jail's address. It's important to include the sender's name and address on the top left corner. The mailing address is: 

Inmate's Full Name, Booking Number

Kalamazoo County Jail

1500 Lamont Avenue

Kalamazoo, MI 49048

Mailing Items: You can send letters, postcards, legal mail, newspapers, magazines, and books, but they must adhere to the jail's guidelines.

To ensure successful delivery, there are specific guidelines that must be followed. These include:

Full Name and Booking Number: Always include the inmate's full name and booking number on the envelope to ensure correct delivery. Mislabelled mail may not reach the intended recipient.

Content Restrictions: The mail should only contain letters or approved photos. Any inappropriate content, such as explicit material or suggestions of illegal activity, is strictly prohibited and will be confiscated.

Prohibited Items: Do not send items that could compromise the facility's security, like contraband. These items will be confiscated, and may lead to penalties for the sender or the inmate.

No Packages, Money, or Personal Items: Packages, money, or personal items sent through the mail will not be accepted. These items should be sent through the approved channels or will otherwise be returned or discarded.

Inspection of Mail: All non-legal mail is opened and inspected by jail staff for security purposes. This ensures the safety and security of the facility and its inhabitants.

Financial Support for Inmates 

Providing financial support to inmates at Kalamazoo County Jail is vital for their welfare. This support allows inmates to purchase essentials like personal hygiene products, snacks, and stationery, contributing to their overall well-being while incarcerated.

Approved Methods for Sending Money

1. Online Deposits: You can deposit money into an inmate's account online through Express Account. This is a convenient way to send funds from anywhere in the world.
2. Mail: Money orders or cashier's checks are often accepted through mail. It's important to include the inmate's full name and booking number. Personal checks are usually not accepted.
3. Kiosk Deposits: Kalamazoo County Jail has a kiosk in its lobby where you can deposit funds directly into an inmate's account using cash, debit, or credit cards.
4. Phone Deposits: You can also deposit money over the phone by calling 866-422-6833.

Regulations and Limitations for Sending Money 

Amount Limits: The jail may impose limits on the amount of money an inmate can receive or hold in their account. This is to manage financial transactions within the facility and ensure equitable access to commissary items for all inmates. It's crucial to check the specific limits at Kalamazoo County Jail to avoid exceeding these restrictions.

Frequency of Deposits: Restrictions on the frequency of deposits ensure that the jail's financial system is not overwhelmed and helps in monitoring the financial activities of inmates. This could include limitations on how often money can be sent, or the number of transactions permitted within a certain time frame. Understanding these rules will help in planning your deposits effectively.

Service Fees: Third-party services, including online platforms and kiosk deposits, typically charge service fees. These fees can vary based on the amount being deposited and the service used. It's important to factor in these additional costs when sending money to ensure the inmate receives the intended amount.

Refunds: Funds sent to inmates are usually non-refundable. This policy remains even if the inmate is transferred to another facility or released. Therefore, it's advisable to send amounts that the inmate can use while they are still incarcerated at Kalamazoo County Jail.

Commissary Use: Inmates use these funds primarily to purchase items from the jail's commissary, such as snacks, hygiene products, and stationery. Kalamazoo County Jail allows inmates to spend up to weekly on these items. However, commissary orders are considered a privilege and might be restricted due to disciplinary issues or rule violations within the jail.

Debt and Commissary Split: When deposits are made into an inmate’s account, they may be divided between the inmate's existing debts (if any) and their commissary fund. For instance, in Kalamazoo County Jail, if an inmate has a debt, deposits are split 50/50 between their debt and the commissary account. This division helps in managing outstanding balances while still allowing inmates access to funds for commissary purchases.

Inmate Commissary

The inmate commissary is essentially a store within the jail where inmates can purchase various items not regularly issued by the facility. These items often include food, snacks, toiletries, writing materials, and certain clothing items. The main purpose of the commissary is to provide inmates with access to goods that can make their stay in the correction facility more comfortable.

How Inmates Can Use the Commissary

Inmates can use the funds in their personal jail accounts to purchase items from the commissary. The facility usually provides a list of available items, and inmates can choose what they want to buy within the constraints of their available funds and the jail's limitations.

Restrictions on the Commissary Use

Certain restrictions apply to the commissary use:

• There are limits on the quantity of items an inmate can purchase within a certain period.
• Some items may be restricted based on the inmate's behavior, health conditions, or security level.
• If an inmate owes fines, fees, or restitution, a portion of their commissary funds may be used to cover these debts.

Incarceration Records and Mugshots

Process of Obtaining Incarceration Records

To obtain incarceration records for an inmate at Kalamazoo County Jail, you will need to submit a request to the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office. This can be done through the Sheriff's Office's Records Division. It's important to provide as much information as possible to help the staff locate the correct records. Please note that a small fee may apply for this service.

Explanation of Mugshots and Their Availability

Mugshots are photographs taken of individuals at the time of their arrest. They typically consist of a frontal and a profile picture. They are used for identification purposes and become part of the inmate's criminal record.

In Michigan, mugshots are generally considered public record and can be obtained by request. However, there may be restrictions or fees associated with obtaining these photographs. The best course of action is to contact the Sheriff's Office's Records Division for specific procedures and requirements.

Security Level

The Kalamazoo County Jail operates with a high level of security to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors. Security measures include controlled access, continuous surveillance, regular cell checks, and stringent visitor and mail screening processes. The facility also employs various technology solutions for additional security.

Categories of Offenders Housed

The detention facility houses offenders of various categories, including individuals awaiting trial, those serving short-term sentences, and inmates awaiting transfer to other correctional institutions. The jail houses both male and female inmates and covers a range of offenses from minor misdemeanors to more serious felonies.

Role of Correctional Officers

Correctional officers at the Kalamazoo County Jail play a crucial role in maintaining security, safety, and order. Their responsibilities include supervising inmates, enforcing rules and regulations, preventing disturbances, and ensuring the well-being of inmates. They also facilitate inmate programs, visitation, and communication, and are integral in the daily operations of the facility.

Location and Contact Details

Here is the official contact information for the Kalamazoo County Jail:

Mailing Address:

Kalamazoo County Jail

1500 Lamont Avenue

Kalamazoo, MI 49048

Phone Number: You can reach the Kalamazoo County Jail by phone at 269-385-6173.

Official Website: For more information and resources related to the jail, visit the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office website.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Inmate Search and Arrests Lookup

1. How can I find an inmate in a specific jail or prison?

   Most correctional facilities have an online inmate locator or tracker that you can use to find an inmate. This typically involves visiting the official website of the specific jail or prison and navigating to their inmate locator page. If such a tool isn't available, you could contact the correctional facility directly via phone or email.

2. What information do I need to perform an inmate search?

   To perform an inmate search, you'll generally need the inmate's full legal name and their inmate ID number, if it's known. Other helpful information can include the inmate's date of birth, sex, race, and the date they were incarcerated.

3. What is an inmate locator or tracker?

   An inmate locator or tracker is an online database or tool that allows you to search for inmates in a particular jail or prison system. It can provide information about an inmate's current location, booking details, expected release date, and other relevant information.

4. Is there a nationwide inmate search?

   Yes, there are several online resources that provide a nationwide inmate search. One such resource is the Federal Bureau of Prisons' Inmate Locator.

5. How up-to-date is the information in an inmate search?

   The frequency of updates to inmate information varies depending on the system being used. Some facilities update their databases several times a day, while others may do so less frequently. It's always best to check with the individual facility for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Jail Bookings

1. What does the term "jail booking" mean?

   Jail booking is the process that follows an individual's arrest, during which their personal information, charges, fingerprints, and photographs are recorded in the jail's system. This often includes a search of the individual and their personal items, medical screening, and potentially other administrative procedures.

2. What information is recorded during a jail booking?

   Information recorded during a jail booking typically includes the individual's name, birth date, physical description, fingerprints, photographs, details of the alleged crime, and personal property inventory. Health screening information and biographical details may also be collected.

3. Can I see the booking details of an inmate online?

   In many jurisdictions, booking details are public record and can be viewed online, often through a county's sheriff's office or local law enforcement agency's website. This can include the individual's name, mugshot, booking number, and charges. Some details may be withheld for privacy or security reasons.

4. How quickly after an arrest is an individual typically booked into jail?

   This can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the individual case's specifics, the current workload of the booking staff, and the law enforcement agency's policies. However, typically, booking occurs shortly after arrest, often within a few hours.

Inmate Calls

1. Can inmates make calls to any number?

   In general, inmates can make calls to most landline and mobile phone numbers. However, each correctional facility may have its own set of rules and restrictions. For example, international calls may be prohibited, and calls to certain types of numbers (like 1-900 numbers) are usually not allowed. All calls are typically subject to monitoring and recording.

2. What are the restrictions on inmate phone calls?

   Restrictions can vary greatly by facility but often include limits on call duration, the times of day when calls can be made, the number of calls that can be made per day or week, and who can be called. All calls are typically subject to monitoring and recording.

3. Can I call an inmate directly?

   Generally, you cannot call an inmate directly. Inmates can make outgoing calls, but incoming calls are usually not allowed due to security reasons. However, you can often leave a voicemail message for an inmate through a service provided by the facility.

4. How do I accept a call from an inmate?

   When an inmate calls you, you'll typically hear an automated message informing you that you're receiving a call from a correctional facility. You'll usually be given the option to accept the call, decline the call, or block all future calls from that facility.

5. Are inmate phone calls monitored or recorded?

   Yes, almost all calls made by inmates in jails and prisons are monitored and recorded, with the exception of calls to their legal counsel. This is done for security and safety reasons. Inmates are generally informed of this when they are booked into the facility.

Inmate Mail

1. How can I send mail to an inmate?

   To send mail to an inmate, you'll need to address your envelope with the inmate's full name, their inmate ID number (if known), and the full address of the correctional facility. Be aware that all mail is inspected for contraband before it is given to the inmate.

2. What are the restrictions on sending mail to inmates?

   Restrictions vary by facility, but common restrictions include: no contraband (drugs, weapons, etc.), no explicit or offensive material, no Polaroid photos, no metal or plastic, and no cash. Some facilities may have additional restrictions, so it's always a good idea to check the facility's rules before sending mail.

3. How is incoming mail handled in the prison?

   Incoming mail for inmates is typically opened and inspected by prison staff to ensure there is no contraband. Once it has been inspected, it's delivered to the inmate. Legal mail, or correspondence from an inmate's attorney, may be opened in the presence of the inmate but is not read by staff.

4. Are there any restrictions on the type of mail an inmate can receive?

   Yes, each correctional facility has its own set of rules and regulations on the type of mail an inmate can receive. Common restrictions include no packages, no explicit or offensive material, and no cash or checks. However, inmates are generally allowed to receive letters, photos, and some types of publications like books and magazines, which must be sent directly from the publisher or a retailer like Amazon.

Visitation

1. How can I visit an inmate?

   Visiting an inmate typically requires you to be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Once you're on this list, you'll need to follow the correctional facility's specific procedures, which usually include scheduling a visit in advance, arriving early, and adhering to their rules and regulations, such as dress code and conduct.

2. What are the visitation rules and restrictions?

   Visitation rules and restrictions vary by facility but commonly include: visiting hours/days, length of visit, dress code, number of visitors allowed, allowed and prohibited items, and rules about physical contact. In some cases, visits may be non-contact, meaning you'll be separated by glass or bars.

3. Do I need to schedule a visitation in advance?

   Most facilities require that visits be scheduled in advance, often at least 24 hours prior. This can usually be done online or over the phone. The availability of visiting times can vary depending on the facility and the inmate's security level.